Washington, D.C. - Rep. Berman was honored last night at the Recording Academy’s 11th Annual GRAMMYs® on the Hill Awards Ceremony for his contributions to the music industry and career fighting to protect intellectual property and performance rights for artists. Rep. Berman is renowned by his colleagues and the music industry, as one of the preeminent experts on intellectual property in Congress.

Rep. Berman was joined by seven-time GRAMMY®-winning singer/songwriter/producer John Mayer who also received an award, as well as Recording Academy President Neil Portnow.
           
“I must say that it is really the partnership with the music and entertainment communities that is responsible for what we have been able to accomplish so far,” said Rep. Berman.  “And I look forward to standing with you to get the job done.”

Rep. Berman was introduced by five-time GRAMMY® winner, songwriter and producer Jimmy Jam.  On Rep. Berman, Jimmy Jam said: “He ALWAYS stands up for the little guy… Howard knows protecting I.P. is good for his constituents, his district and his country.  And he knows how to get things done in Washington, working across the aisle he is not just a passionate—but an effective—champion for his district and for music creators nationwide.”

Pat Collins, President and Chief Operating Officer of Society of European Stage Authors & Composers (SESAC) added, “Of particular note over the years, has been Mr. Berman’s ability to form bipartisan coalitions, which is an especially impressive achievement in this era of partisan politics.”

Upon receiving the award, Rep. Berman stressed the importance protecting intellectual property has in bolstering our economy.

“As a representative from Los Angeles, I understand the value of our country’s greatest export – intellectual property,” added Rep. Berman.  “We cannot afford to give away our innovation for free. Protection of IP enables people in the music business to make a living, and to keep making the music that defines the culture of each generation.”

Music and entertainment is one of the predominant industries in San Fernando Valley.  According to the US Census, over 34,000 residents or 11% of the population in California’s 28th District are employed by the entertainment industry.

Of his many accomplishments, in 2008, while Chairman of the Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and Intellectual Property, Rep. Berman spearheaded passage of the Pro-IP Act in Congress.  Eventually signed into law, this bill strengthened enforcement provisions against copyright infringement.

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Photo Courtesy of The Recording Academy(r)/WireImage.com (c) 2012

(From left to right) Seven-time GRAMMY®-winning singer/songwriter/producer John Mayer, Recording Academy President Neil Portnow, US Congressman Howard L. Berman (D-Valley Village), and Vice-President of Advocacy and Government Relations for the Recording Academy Darryl Friedman at the GRAMMYs® on The Hill award ceremony in Washington DC. (April 25, 2012)